I get questioned occasionally as to why I’m a member of the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation when my child does not have Bipolar Disorder. Tim has – and it’s a long diagnosis – Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Type. His condition shares many symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, specifically periods of mania and depression. But what frightens people about schizophrenic disorders – the constant that is the hallmark of schizophrenic disorders – does sometimes occur with Bipolar Disorder. The big “p” word. Psychosis. Psychosis rules the roost around here, more often than I would like.
Read the rest at CABF.
The “P” Word
Another great post. As I read about the eye doctor episode, I thought about many similar occasions involving my uncle. My aunt (his sister) is very, very good to him, but I wish he had parents like you and your husband when he was growing up. My grandparents were ashamed to admit that their son wasn't 'normal', though this was painfully obvious when he was only two years old, and he didn't get treatment until he had a violent and debilitating breakdown at work when he was in his early 20's. On top of his crippling brain chemistry issues, he has emotional scars from spending his childhood swept under a carpet, without approval or acceptance. I'm so glad your kids have you two for parents and are so very loved. It really does make me feel better about the world.